Notch Hook Ups
The Hook Ups: How We Built the CE-Certified Comms System for Arborists
At Notch, we're always looking for ways to raise the bar on arborist gear. The Hook Ups are a perfect example. They are purpose-built to solve a problem the industry has worked around for too long.
The Problem We Set Out to Solve
Clear communication isn't a convenience on tree jobs. It's a safety requirement. Between saw noise, chippers, traffic, and the distance between climber and ground crew, helmet-mounted communication systems have become essential. They work. Crews stay coordinated. Jobs move smoother. Risk drops.
But here's the issue: most communication systems on the market were retrofitted from standard industrial earmuffs. People were drilling into hearing protection, routing wires through the cups, and hoping for the best. Even when the comms worked, those modifications could compromise the certified hearing protection rating of the muff.
We knew there had to be a better way.
Purpose-Built from the Start
When paired with SENA Work 4 or SENA 33i units, the Notch Hook Ups are a CE-certified helmet-mounted communication systems designed specifically for arborists. These are not adapted, designed.
Instead of modifying existing earmuffs, we engineered the Hook Ups as a complete system. Each muff includes integrated speakers and a sealed rubber grommet molded directly into the housing to route wiring cleanly and safely. The result? Full CE certification for both hearing protection and electronic integration.
No drilling.
No retrofitting.
No compromising your PPE.
"We wanted to eliminate the guesswork," says our product development team. "Arborists shouldn't have to choose between clear communication and certified hearing protection.
With the Hook Ups, you get both."
What CE Certification Really Means
CE certification isn't just a badge. It's verification that the system meets strict European standards for both hearing protection performance and the safe integration of electronics. In practical terms, you're getting proven protection and reliable communication in one certified package.
Real Benefits in the Field
Communication systems reduce risk, plain and simple. Direct, clear communication between the climber and ground crew helps prevent mistakes around roads, structures, and heavy rigging. It also reduces fatigue and long-term hearing strain that comes from yelling over equipment all day.
When paired with SENA Work 4 or SENA 33i, the Hook Ups deliver reliable, jobsite-ready communication built to handle real arborist conditions.
Flexible Setup for Different Crews
The Hook Ups earmuffs are built to work with your existing gear. Whether you already own SENA comms units or you're adding helmet-mounted communication for the first time, they integrate seamlessly.
Through our retail partners like SherrillTree.com and TreeStuff.com, you'll find hundreds of ready-made assemblies designed to work with the helmets and PPE your crew already uses, without the guesswork or compatibility issues.
If you're currently running modified muffs with your SENA units, the Hook Ups give you a fully certified replacement without compromising protection.
Raising the Standard
For years, modified earmuffs were considered "good enough." At Notch, we don't settle for good enough. We build gear that arborists actually need, tested by arborists, and certified to perform.
The Hook Ups are purpose-built. They're certified. And they let you run helmet-mounted communication the way it should be done.
Better communication shouldn't require compromise.